The Fourth of July is one of the most beloved holidays on the calendar. With warm weather, summer fun, and celebrations, many people look forward to spending it with friends and family. But you can take your celebrations from good to phenomenal and make this Fourth of July memorable. Try these seven ways to get ready for the Fourth of July and have your best one yet.
Boast a Better Barbecue
Of course, people love to grill on the Fourth, and you can be the talk of the neighborhood with a little planning. First, consider the type of fuel you’ll use. Although it can be tempting to go with the fast-lighting type, you can up the flavor factor with hardwood lump charcoal.
Outdoor Fun for Everyone
Before the Fourth, look at your outdoor entertaining spaces. With a little planning and prep, you can have fun activities all day. From lawn games to gathering spaces for serving guests, the Fourth of July is the perfect time to enjoy the bright sun and warm temperatures. Lastly, make sure you stay hydrated and keep the sunscreen handy.
Don’t Let it Bug You
It’s all fun and games until the flies discover your barbecue. Beat back the bugs and keep everyone comfortable with a few easy steps. First, empty any standing water to discourage mosquitos from breeding. Next, rake up yard debris, and pick up after dogs. Finally, if possible, protect your skin with long sleeves and pants or a nontoxic bug spray for exposed skin.
Tried and True with the Red, White, and Blue
The Fourth of July is a wonderful time for displaying the flag. First, check your flag for fraying and wear and tear if you already display it. If there are rips or it is faded, replace it with a new flag. Adding red, white, and blue decorations around the entertainment areas can also level up the wow factor.
Master Your Menu
Give yourself plenty of time to prepare the menu for your holiday entertaining. Perhaps you’ll opt for a traditional barbecue with all the sides and fixings. Or, you might arrange lots of finger foods and bites that match a color scheme. But before you get cooking, inspect your grill or smoker, and give it a trial run to ensure it is in good working order.
Entertain with Style
Before the big day, think about how many people will attend to be sure you have enough seating. Then, give your lawn and landscaping a trim and cleanup to prevent snags or problems. Last, consider your lighting situation—you may want to install extra spotlights or grab some decorative string lights for a dim patio.
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The Fan-Favorite: Fireworks
Check your city regulations to determine if fireworks are permitted in your neighborhood. But whether you plan to set some off at home or not, a community fireworks event is a wonderful way to connect with your neighbors and get a fantastic show. And if you can have fireworks at home, make a safety plan.
There’s a reason why so many people love the Fourth of July. With a few simple steps, you can help ensure your next Fourth is a special and unforgettable experience for your family and friends.
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